Early vaccination might be crucial for growth, health of African children

Vaccination of African babies directly after birth seems favorable for their growth and health, while vaccination later in life may have negative effects, show researchers who analyzed the medical data of more than 350,000 African children. The team studied the effects of BCG vaccination (against tuberculosis), DTP vaccination (against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis) and measles vaccination on growth and health of sub-Saharan African children under five. Timing of vaccination was found to be important for all these vaccines: 'the sooner, the better' seems to be the motto for each of them. Early vaccination leads to lower odds on stunting (retarded growth) and also offers general health advantages. Findings also indicate that delayed vaccinations may be harmful.